# Advanced Clinicals Retinol Advanced Firming Cream for oily acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates.

Brand: [Advanced Clinicals](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/advanced-clinicals)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily acne-prone skin: shine, breakouts, blemishes, and enlarged pores. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for oily acne-prone skin; the serums alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate anti-aging benefits for your oily skin due to retinol's ability to regulate desquamation, but its effectiveness for acne and breakouts is limited by potentially pore-clogging ingredients like mineral oil and isopropyl myristate.
- While retinol addresses oiliness to some extent, the formula lacks sufficient seboregulating ingredients to fully manage excess oil production on your oily skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Low
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low (this page)

## Key ingredients

Retinol, Aloe Barbadensis, Camellia Sinensis, Chamomile, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Topical stabilized retinol treatment induced HAS gene expression and increased hyaluronic acid production in human skin in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo compared to vehicle. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28247017/))
- Topical application of all-trans-retinol induced epidermal thickening and increased retinoid binding protein expression similar to all-trans-retinoic acid in normal human skin, but without causing significant erythema or measurable retinoic acid levels. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7561157/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Topical green tea extract significantly improved clinical symptoms, tear breakup times, and meibomian gland health compared to standard treatment in patients with dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. ([Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28384900/))
- Topical low-dose green tea extract reduces UVB-induced p53 expression and apoptosis in human skin keratinocytes compared to placebo. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631247/))
- An anti-acne hydrogel containing Aloe barbadensis, Garcinia mangostana, and Camellia sinensis extracts showed superior antiacne and antiblotch activities compared to 1% clindamycin gel in sixty subjects with mild-moderate acne. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239743/))
- Apigenin protects against UVA-induced cytotoxicity and senescence in normal human dermal fibroblasts, decreases MMP-1 expression, and when applied topically as a cream in human subjects, increases dermal density and elasticity while reducing fine wrinkle length, skin evenness, moisture content, and transepidermal water loss compared to control cream. ([International Journal of Molecular Medicine, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27279007/))
- Topical chamomile oil combined with a night splint significantly improved the symptomatic and functional status of patients with severe carpal tunnel syndrome compared to placebo, while electrodiagnostic parameters showed no significant changes. ([Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26573447/))
- German chamomile solution applied twice a day healed peristomal skin lesions significantly faster than once-a-day 1% hydrocortisone ointment in colostomy patients, with a mean healing time of 8.89 days versus 14.53 days. ([Ostomy/wound Management, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21617262/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))

## Why other serums fit oily acne-prone skin better

- Topical benzoyl peroxide 5% gel treatment improved acne severity, sebum, stratum corneum hydration, and transepidermal water loss, while significantly reducing microbial diversity and the prevalence of Cutibacterium in 33 patients with acne vulgaris. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34962033/))
- Niacinamide and ferulic acid incorporated in a stable multiple emulsion successfully reduced melanin, sebum, and skin erythema while improving skin elasticity and hydration in human skin compared to a placebo. ([BioMed Research International, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35342760/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this product is highly praised for enhancing skin texture, increasing elasticity, and diminishing fine lines, particularly for aging and sensitive skin types. Some users with very dry skin report it can be drying and may require additional moisturizers. The product is frequently noted for its quick absorption, excellent value, and fragrance-free formulation.

- Liked: Absorbs quickly (often mentioned)
- Liked: Great value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fragrance-free formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes skin dryness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Faulty pump packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Watery consistency (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your PM routine. Start 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your serum after cleansing and toning, but before putting on your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2 to 3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the serum on clean, dry skin to help manage your blemishes safely.
- Do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Advanced Clinicals Retinol Firming Cream a weak match for oily acne-prone skin?

This cream is a weak match for oily acne-prone skin because it contains heavy ingredients like mineral oil and isopropyl myristate that may clog pores, and it lacks enough oil-controlling ingredients to manage excess shine. Oily acne-prone skin needs a treatment with lightweight, non-clogging ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, or benzoyl peroxide that help clear breakouts and manage excess oil without causing new blemishes.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a poor fit for oily acne-prone skin?

Mineral oil and isopropyl myristate make this cream a poor fit because they may clog pores on oily acne-prone skin. A product of this type for this skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, benzoyl peroxide, or Vitamin C to manage breakouts and excess oil without heavy or pore-clogging components.

### What does Retinol do for oily acne-prone skin?

Retinol helps oily acne-prone skin by clearing up breakouts and smoothing the skin, though it may occasionally cause some mild scaling or stinging. This ingredient works by addressing the root causes of acne, making it a reliable choice for keeping pores clear and skin smooth.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30674002/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30586483/)

### What does Aloe Vera do for oily acne-prone skin?

Aloe vera helps calm oily, acne-prone skin by reducing redness, bumps, and breakouts while keeping the skin smooth. This plant-based ingredient also supports clearer skin and helps improve overall skin texture.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/), [Frontiers in Medicine, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34095172/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, but it is a weak match for oily acne-prone skin because heavy ingredients like mineral oil and isopropyl myristate may clog pores. Oily acne-prone skin needs lightweight, oil-controlling formulas with pore-clearing ingredients to properly manage breakouts and excess shine without heavy oils.

### Can I use this cream with vitamin C, and in what order?

This cream is a weak match for your oily acne-prone skin because it contains pore-clogging ingredients like mineral oil and isopropyl myristate that limit its effectiveness for breakouts. To properly care for oily acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs lightweight ingredients that help control excess oil without clogging pores.

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this treatment cream in the evening, starting once a week and slowly increasing the frequency if your skin tolerates it well. While retinol helps smooth oily skin, this product needs a lightweight formula free of pore-clogging ingredients like mineral oil and isopropyl myristate to properly manage acne breakouts.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

Yes, this cream can clog pores and cause breakouts on oily acne-prone skin because it contains heavy ingredients like mineral oil and isopropyl myristate. While retinol helps smooth the skin, a product for this skin type needs lightweight, non-clogging hydrators and ingredients that actively control excess oil without heavy oils.

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clinique/fresh-pressed-daily-booster-with-pure-vitamin-c-10/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 365.22 at Amazon
- [Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/clean-and-clear/persa-gel-10/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 36.96 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 89.30 at Amazon

## Routine for oily acne-prone skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 138.20 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 145.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon
- SPF: [Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dear-klairs/all-day-airy-sunscreen/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 95.14 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 65.65 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 138.20 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/ren-clean-skincare/ready-steady-glow-daily-aha-tonic/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 220.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 168.76 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 65.65 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 138.20 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 101.09 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [Revision Skincare Black Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/revision-skincare/black-mask/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 204.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 145.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 168.76 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United Arab Emirates has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Mineral Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Isopropyl Myristate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Ceteareth-20, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Disodium Edta, Maltodextrin, Phenoxyethanol, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/advanced-clinicals/retinol-advanced-firming-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)